Myiodynastes maculatus
The Streaked Flycatcher (Myiodynastes maculatus) is a robust and visually striking member of the tyrant flycatcher family, Tyrannidae, common across a vast Neotropical range. Measuring approximately 20-23 cm (8-9 inches) in length with a wingspan of about 35-40 cm (14-16 inches) and weighing 35-50 grams, this medium-sized flycatcher is easily identified by its distinctive heavily streaked plumage. Its overall coloration features a brownish-olive back, a bright yellow belly, a white throat, an...
This adaptable species primarily inhabits open woodlands, forest edges, savannas with scattered trees, clearings, and riparian zones, from sea level up to 1800 meters (5,900 feet) in elevation. It frequently occurs in disturbed areas, plantations, and even suburban gardens with mature trees.
The Streaked Flycatcher's diet consists mainly of large insects, such as beetles, bees, wasps, and grasshoppers, which it catches in flight or gleans from vegetation. It also supplements its diet significantly with a variety of fruits and berries, especially during the non-breeding season.
Streaked Flycatchers are diurnal predators, often observed perching conspicuously on exposed branches or power lines, maintaining an alert posture. Their foraging strategy primarily involves aerial hawking, where they sally forth from a perch to snatch flying insects in mid-air, often returning t...
The Streaked Flycatcher boasts an expansive Neotropical distribution, breeding from eastern and western Mexico, through Central America, and extensively across South America. Its range extends south through Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Brazil, reaching n...
Least Concern
- The Streaked Flycatcher is renowned for its aggressive nature, often chasing much larger birds, including raptors, away from its nesting territory. - Despite its name, this species regularly incorporates a significant amount of fruit into its diet, especially outside the breeding season, making...